Blues rock has always been about evolution. Every generation brings in new players who absorb the influence of legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, or modern-day stars like Joe Bonamassa, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Derek Trucks, then reshape it into something that reflects their own time. What separates the great ones is not just technical ability, but identity. The guitar has to sound like an extension of the player, not a collection of borrowed ideas.
Right now, there is no shortage of young talent doing exactly that. Blues rock is being pushed in multiple directions, from hard-driving modern rock to soul-infused, roots-heavy approaches. The result is a scene that feels alive rather than nostalgic.
Here are 20 must-hear blues rock guitarists under 40 who are helping define where the genre goes next.
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram has quickly become one of the most important young voices in blues rock, and it’s not hard to hear why. Coming out of Clarksdale, Mississippi, he carries the weight of blues history with him, but his sound is undeniably modern. His tone is massive, and his phrasing has a level of confidence that immediately stands out. What makes Kingfish special is his ability to balance restraint with explosive power, allowing his solos to build naturally rather than forcing big moments. On stage, he takes those songs even further, stretching them out and feeding off the energy of the crowd. He already plays with the authority of someone who has been doing this for decades. This past year has been a big one for Kingfish as he appeared in the Grammy and Oscar-winning Sinners soundtrack/film.
Samantha Fish
Samantha Fish continues to be one of the most dynamic artists in the modern blues rock landscape. Her sound refuses to be boxed in, blending blues, rock, soul, and even garage-style grit into something that feels current. As a guitarist, she’s capable of delivering both raw, aggressive solos and more melodic, restrained passages depending on what the song calls for. That versatility has been a defining part of her appeal across multiple releases. Live, she leans even harder into that freedom, often extending songs and adding extra bite to her guitar work. There’s a sense that anything can happen in her performances, and that unpredictability keeps audiences engaged. In recent years, Fish earned invites to Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival and Slash’s SERPENT Festival, and has racked up two Grammy nominations and earned Blues Rock Review’s #1 album of 2025 with Paper Doll.
Marcus King
Marcus King brings a deeply emotional and soulful approach that separates him from many of his peers. His guitar playing feels like an extension of his voice, which is fitting given how powerful his vocals have become. There’s a heaviness to his phrasing, with each note carrying weight rather than being rushed through for effect. He pulls from blues, Southern rock, and soul influences, blending them into a style that feels both classic and contemporary. In a live setting, he stretches out more, allowing his solos to evolve and take on a more improvisational feel. That combination of vulnerability and fire makes him one of the most compelling artists in the genre right now.
Tyler Bryant
Tyler Bryant delivers a high-energy, riff-driven take on blues rock that leans heavily into modern rock territory. Whether as the frontman of Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown or as a solo artist, he brings a physicality to his playing that translates immediately on stage. His guitar work is built around strong hooks, punchy riffs, and solos that prioritize feel over unnecessary complexity. That approach gives his music a directness that connects quickly with listeners. Bryant has the ability to write songs that feel both accessible and rooted in blues tradition. There’s a sense of urgency in his playing that keeps things from ever feeling stale.
Jared James Nichols
Jared James Nichols stands out immediately thanks to his no-pick playing style, which gives his tone a distinct attack. Using only his fingers, he’s able to create a thick, aggressive sound that cuts through in a way that feels raw and unfiltered. His approach leans toward heavier blues rock, blending traditional phrasing with hard rock intensity. That combination gives his riffs a weight that sets him apart from more traditional players. On stage, Nichols takes that energy even further, often pushing songs into louder and more explosive territory. His playing feels physical, almost percussive at times, which adds to the overall impact. It’s blues power to the max.
Ally Venable
Ally Venable has steadily built a reputation as one of the most promising young guitarists in the blues rock scene. Her playing is rooted in traditional blues phrasing, but she brings a level of confidence and control that stands out. Rather than relying on speed or flash, she focuses on building solos that develop naturally over time. That sense of structure gives her playing a maturity beyond her years. She shows a strong command of dynamics, knowing when to hold back and when to step forward. That balance makes her performances feel engaging without being over the top.
Eric Steckel
Eric Steckel has been developing his sound since he was 12 years old, opening for John Mayall, and that experience shows in his current playing. He blends classic blues rock influences with a modern tone that gives his music a heavier edge. His solos often stretch out, allowing him to explore different ideas within the same performance. That willingness to take risks is part of what makes his live shows stand out. Steckel’s playing is both technically solid and emotionally driven, striking a balance that keeps it from feeling overly polished. He’s also developed a strong sense of stage presence over the years, connecting well with audiences. That combination of experience and continued growth keeps him relevant within the current scene.
Davy Knowles
Davy Knowles takes a more traditional and roots-focused approach compared to many of his contemporaries. His playing emphasizes tone and phrasing, often letting notes breathe rather than filling every space. That restraint gives his solos a sense of purpose, making them feel more intentional. He draws heavily from classic blues and blues rock influences like Rory Gallagher, but presents them with a modern clarity. As a songwriter, he also brings a strong sense of melody, which complements his guitar work. That approach makes his standout moments feel earned rather than forced.
Ryan McGarvey
Ryan McGarvey combines technical ability with emotional depth in a way that few players manage consistently. His solos often unfold like a story, building tension and releasing it at just the right moments. He’s capable of moving from subtle phrasing to high-speed runs without losing the thread of the song. That control is a big part of what makes his playing so engaging. Championed by artists like Joe Bonamassa, McGarvey’s ability to connect technique with feeling is what truly sets him apart. Ryan is set to release his first studio album in eight years, Back to Life, in 2026.
Ben Poole
Ben Poole brings a refined and polished approach to blues rock that blends technical skill with strong melodic sensibility. His playing is smooth and controlled, often centered around phrasing rather than flash. That focus gives his solos a sense of direction, allowing them to build naturally across a track. He draws influence from classic British blues while keeping his sound modern and accessible. His tone is clean but powerful, capable of shifting from subtle to driving without losing clarity. His sound is thick and massive live, and Poole often expands on his studio work, adding extra nuance and improvisation. That balance between precision and feel makes him one of the more complete players in today’s scene.
Laurence Jones
Laurence Jones has been a prominent figure in modern British blues rock for years, and he continues to evolve. His playing combines strong technical ability with a clear sense of melody, making his solos both engaging and memorable. He leans into a polished, contemporary sound that broadens his appeal beyond traditional blues audiences. Over time, his songwriting has matured, incorporating more diverse influences while still staying rooted in blues. Despite a well-documented battle with Crohn’s disease, Jones continues to inspire as one of the most consistent young players in the genre.
Hannah Wicklund
Hannah Wicklund brings a refreshing blend of blues rock and classic rock energy that feels both nostalgic and current. She has a natural stage presence that complements her guitar work, making her live performances especially engaging, which earned her a trip to perform at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival in 2023. Wicklund’s songwriting also stands out, balancing strong hooks with moments that allow her guitar to shine. She has a knack for building solos that feel organic rather than forced. That authenticity is a big part of her appeal.
Eddie 9V
Eddie 9V offers a different flavor compared to many on this list, leaning heavily into soul, funk, and vintage blues influences. His guitar playing is less about flash and more about groove, tone, and feel. That approach gives his music a laid-back but deeply engaging quality. He often focuses on rhythm playing just as much as lead work, which adds depth to his overall sound. Eddie blends genres seamlessly. In a live setting, his performances feel loose and organic, capturing a classic vibe. Eddie 9V proves that blues rock doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. Now signed to Dan Auerbach’s Easy Eye Sound, the next chapter of Eddie 9V’s career will be met with much anticipation.
Quinn Sullivan
Quinn Sullivan has grown from a prodigy mentored by Buddy Guy at a young age into a fully developed artist with a clear musical identity. Early in his career, he was known for his technical ability, but his recent work shows significant growth as a songwriter and performer. His playing now emphasizes feel and melody over pure speed. That evolution has helped him stand out in a crowded field of young guitarists. Sullivan continues to refine his sound with each release.
DK Harrell
DK Harrell has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young traditionalists in blues today. His playing leans heavily into classic electric blues phrasing, but he delivers it with a conviction that feels fresh rather than retro. Harrell’s tone is warm and expressive, allowing him to communicate emotion without overplaying. He has a strong sense of timing, often letting notes linger just long enough to create tension before resolving them. His live performances have been gaining attention for their authenticity and feel. Rather than trying to reinvent the genre, he focuses on doing it right. That commitment to the fundamentals makes him stand out.
Chris Buck
Chris Buck has become one of the most talked-about modern guitarists in recent years, largely due to his distinctive phrasing and a strong online presence. While he isn’t exclusively a blues rock artist, his work with Cardinal Black leans more into alternative rock, his playing is undeniably rooted in the blues. You can hear that influence in his touch, his note choice, and especially in how he lets phrases breathe rather than filling every space. Buck’s style is highly expressive, often favoring melodic storytelling over speed or flash, which gives his solos a vocal-like quality. His tone is equally recognizable, warm, dynamic, and responsive to every nuance in his playing. What makes him stand out is how he bridges worlds, appealing to modern rock audiences while still resonating with traditional blues fans. That crossover ability makes him a unique and valuable presence in today’s guitar landscape.
Jonathon “Boogie” Long
Jonathon Long, often known as Boogie Long, delivers a high-energy take on blues rock that draws heavily from the genre’s classic roots. His playing is steeped in traditional electric blues, but he brings a modern intensity that gives it a fresh edge. Long’s guitar work is built around strong phrasing, gritty tone, and a clear sense of groove, all of which translate especially well in a live setting. He’s not the type of player to overcomplicate things, instead focusing on feel and execution, which makes his performances hit harder. His background in Louisiana blues is evident, giving his sound an authentic regional flavor that sets him apart. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a reliable live performer capable of holding his own alongside more established names. Boogie Long represents the kind of player who keeps the core of blues rock intact while still pushing it forward. His latest album, Courage in the Chaos, is one of his best.
Rebecca Lovell
Rebecca Lovell has become one of the most compelling guitarists in modern blues rock, anchoring the sound of Larkin Poe with a style that blends grit, groove, and authority. There’s a physicality to how she attacks the instrument, whether she’s locking into a riff or pushing into a solo. What makes Rebecca especially effective is her sense of restraint, she doesn’t overplay, choosing instead to let phrases breathe and build naturally. That approach gives her solos more impact when they do peak. On stage, she thrives in extended moments, stretching songs out and feeding off the band’s energy. She represents a modern take on blues rock that still feels deeply rooted in tradition.
Megan Lovell
Megan Lovell brings a completely different dimension to Larkin Poe’s sound through her mastery of lap steel guitar. While lap steel isn’t always front and center in blues rock, Megan makes it a defining voice within the band’s identity. Her playing adds texture and atmosphere, often weaving around Rebecca’s guitar lines rather than competing with them. That interplay creates a layered sound that feels bigger than a typical two-guitar setup. Megan’s tone can shift from smooth and melodic to biting and aggressive depending on the moment. In live settings, her contributions become even more apparent, adding depth and nuance to extended jams. Together with her sister, she helps push blues rock into a space that feels both classic and forward-looking.
Henry James
Henry James has become a defining part of the modern Southern blues rock sound through his work with Robert Jon & The Wreck. His playing is rooted in classic blues and Southern rock traditions, but he brings a sharp, contemporary edge that keeps it from feeling nostalgic. James has a strong sense of phrasing, often building solos that develop gradually rather than going straight for flash. That patience gives his guitar work a sense of direction and purpose. His tone is thick and expressive, cutting through the band’s dual-guitar attack while still blending seamlessly into the overall sound. Henry James represents the kind of guitarist who honors the past while still pushing blues rock forward.
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